Definition

1. Noun:
   • A low, guttural, often threatening sound made by an animal, especially a dog: This is the characteristic vocalization expressing aggression, warning, or displeasure.
   • A deep, harsh, rumbling sound resembling an animal's growl: This can describe a similar sound produced by a machine, an engine, or even a person's stomach.
   • A gruff, angry, or complaining utterance made by a person: This figurative use describes speech that is low, harsh, and menacing, suggestive of an animal's growl.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The sudden growling from the dark alley made me stop in my tracks.
  • The constant growling of the old refrigerator was annoying.
  • He answered my question with a low growling that showed his irritation.

Advanced Usage

• Attributive Noun Use: "Growling" is frequently used before another noun to describe a source or type of sound.
  • We heard a growling noise coming from the engine compartment.
  • The dog fixed us with a growling menace.

Variants and Related Words

• Growl (verb): To make a growling sound.
  • The tiger will growl if you get too close.
• Growl (noun): The act or instance of producing a growl.
  • He let out a fierce growl.
• Growler (noun): A person or thing that growls. Informally, it can also refer to a container for beer.
  • That old truck is a real growler.

Synonyms

• Snarling: Often implies a more vicious, teeth-baring growl.
• Rumbling: A deep, continuous sound, less specifically tied to threat.
• Grunting: A short, low sound, often from exertion rather than threat.

Related Phrases

• To let out a growl: To produce a growling sound.
  • The guard dog let out a growl as we approached the gate.
• A growl of protest/disapproval: A figurative phrase for a low, angry verbal complaint.
  • The announcement was met with a growl of disapproval from the crowd.

Noun

1. the sound of growling (as made by animals)
2. a gruff or angry utterance (suggestive of the growling of an animal)